Who gets cochlear implants?

In general, cochlear implants are used to allow deaf people to hear. Although many people who are " hearing impaired " or " hard of hearing " believe they are deaf, " deaf " is generally defined as having more than a 90 dB HL hearing loss. In other words, if someone can benefit from hearing aids, that is usually the treatment of choice. However, if they are not able to satisfactorily benefit from hearing aids, cochlear implants are often a surgical option. Additionally, because of the excellent progress made with cochlear implants over then last two decades, sometimes, people with severe hearing loss (defined as worse than 70 dB HL) might be implanted and sometimes hearing aids are combined with cochlear implants in particular situations. Cochlear implants and hearing aids can be combined in one ear, and sometimes a cochlear implant is placed on one ear while a hearing aid is worn on the other. The best way to determine candidacy for a cochlear implant, is to undergo a " cochlear implant evaluation " at a cochlear implant center.

All FAQ

Are cochlear implants covered by insurance?

Yes. In many/most situations, cochlear implants are covered by Medicare/Medicaid and by the majority of private and commercial insurers. However, it is important to understand that " coverage " varies, and although a particular insurer " covers " cochlear implants, they may only partially cover cochlear implants. It is very important to have cochlear implants " pre-approved " and to discuss your insurance coverage with your insurer. Most of the doctors that perform cochlear implant surgery have insurance people in their offices who will be able to work with you to determine your exact insurance coverage.

All FAQ

What does the future hold for cochlear implants?

Although no one can predict the future, we believe in the next year or two, completely implanted cochlear implants will be commercially available. At this time, cochlear implants have external hardware, much like a behind-the-ear hearing aid, and some people would prefer to not have any external hardware for cosmetic and other reasons. However, completely implantable cochlear implants are technically possible, although they may not necessarily be the " universal " best alternative. Issues such as microphone location and sensitivity and battery life will be key issues.

All FAQ

What is tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the term for the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It is often referred to as " ringing in the ears, " although some people hear hissing, roaring, whistling, chirping, or clicking. Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant, with single or multiple tones. Its?perceived volume can range from very soft to extremely loud.

All FAQ

How many people have tinnitus?

50 million Americans experience tinnitus. Of these, about 12 million have tinnitus which is severe enough to seek medical attention. Of those, about two million patients are so seriously debilitated by their tinnitus, they cannot function normally on a day-to-day basis.

All FAQ